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[Hip-Hop Classics] Timeless HIPHOP / Golden Oldies

Hip-hop hadn’t been very popular in Japan for a long time, but it’s recently started getting attention, thanks in part to the spread of MC battles.

That said, even if people know recent tracks, many might not be familiar with the older ones.

So this time, we’ve picked out some classic hip-hop tracks recommended for those listeners.

We’ve mainly chosen songs from the 1980s to the 2000s, so you can also get a sense of hip-hop’s history.

Please take your time and enjoy.

[Hip-Hop Classics] Standard HIPHOP: Timeless Masterpieces (11–20)

X Goin’ Give It To YaDMX

Rapper DMX, who is still loved by many heads today.

He passed away in 2021, but his classic tracks continue to be talked about and are beloved by a wide range of people—from young listeners to those who came up in the new school era.

One of his iconic songs is X Gon’ Give It to Ya.

His signature intense vibes and shout-like flow really stand out.

For those who love hard-hitting hip-hop, this is a perfect match.

Thugz CryBizzy Bone

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony is a group that gained popularity with their melodic rap style.

Bizzy Bone, who performs this track “Thugz Cry,” is known as one of the most skillful members.

As a child, he was abducted and grew up for a long time believing the criminal who kidnapped him was his parent.

This song reflects his thug life, and its lyrics leave a powerful impact.

It’s an exceptionally skillful piece, so I especially recommend it to listeners who prioritize flow.

Just A FriendBiz Markie

Biz Markie – Just A Friend (Official Video)
Just A FriendBiz Markie

Biz Markie began his career as a beatboxer, rose to prominence as a member of the Juice Crew, and later gained popularity as a solo rapper.

Known for his comical persona, he was widely supported by many heads in the 1980s hip-hop scene.

One of his classic tracks is “Just A Friend.” It seems to recount something he actually experienced, and combined with his humorous character, it leaves a catchy and memorable impression.

Keep Ya Head Up2Pac

Tupac, who continues to exert a tremendous influence on the hip-hop world.

Released in October 1993, this song is a warm anthem that reveals his socially conscious side and a profound love for humanity.

Included on the classic album “Strictly 4 My N.

I.

G.

G.

A.

Z.

…,” it layers a soulful track with gentle R&B vocals, wrapping listeners in a calm embrace.

It portrays a powerful message of encouragement and deep respect for women living through difficult circumstances.

It can also be taken as a song about friendship that transcends gender, or mutual support between people.

It was used in a symbolic scene in the 2017 biopic “All Eyez on Me,” which depicts his life.

It’s the kind of track that quietly gives a nudge forward when a dear friend is feeling down.

Who DatJ. Cole

J. Cole – Who Dat (Official Music Video)
Who DatJ. Cole

Rapper J.

Cole, hailing from Fayetteville, North Carolina.

He’s a man of many talents—he played violin in the Terry Sanford Orchestra and even became a professional basketball player in 2021—and his rapping skills are no exception.

The track I’d like to recommend as one of his classics is Who Dat.

Released during the New School era, when skill was highly valued, it features exceptionally sophisticated rhymes and flow.

Who Am ISnoop Dogg

Snoop Dogg is a globally renowned rapper.

In his early days, his stark, hard-edged style left a strong impression, and his irresistibly groovy sound shocked hip-hop heads and packed dance floors.

“Who Am I,” included on the classic album Doggystyle, is no exception—it gets heads nodding and hips swaying.

It’s an essential track for understanding hip-hop history, so if you haven’t heard it yet, I highly recommend taking a seat and giving it a proper listen.

Hip-Hop Classics: Essential HIPHOP and Timeless Hits (21–30)

Rapper’s DelightThe Sugarhill Gang

Often described as the first hit song in hip-hop, this track captures the genre’s early heartbeat.

Hip-hop is said to have been born as Black communities gathered in parks to party, and this song evokes that origin.

The style in which MCs trade verses over a microphone while rapping on top of a simple, funk-based track—the foundation of hip-hop—developed from this song.